For parents, the fear of losing their child or missing major milestones in their child’s life is a barrier to getting treatment. Parents may avoid going to rehab because they don’t want to take time away from their kids or be unable to care for them. However, it is important to note that addiction is a family disease. If one or more members of your family are struggling with addiction, the whole family is affected–even the kids.

If you are a parent who struggles with addiction, the best thing you can do for your kids is to get sober and stay sober. Continuing to abuse drugs and alcohol will only harm your relationship with them and your ability to care for them. Even if you have to step away for a couple of months to get treatment, it will be worth it because when you return as a sober parent, you will be able to be fully present in your children’s lives.

Options for Childcare for Parents Attending Inpatient Rehab

Because seeking addiction treatment is the right choice, you’re extremely unlikely to lose custody of your children for going to rehab unless there are extending circumstances, such as prior legal charges or custody battles. If you are already at risk of losing custody, showing a willingness to seek and complete treatment can actually help you retain custody of your child.

Although some specialized family treatment programs are designed for women and children, most addiction treatment facilities will not allow your kids to go with you to rehab. If you attend an inpatient or residential treatment program, you’ll have to arrange childcare.

Finding a trusted caregiver can be challenging, especially if you are a single parent. The best choice is usually family. Many parents who attend rehab ask for help from their parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, or cousins for help with childcare. If you have a long-time friend who you trust and are comfortable with, they may also be willing to provide care for your child for you.

Family Visitation During Rehab

Many inpatient rehab programs only last 30 days, so you won’t have to be away for a long time. Your children can also visit you during rehab on a regular basis, so they can stay connected with you while you’re away. The length and nature of family visitation varies from one rehab center to the next.

Many rehab centers will allow your family to visit you up to once a week, and in between visits you are able to make phone calls or write letters. Any visitors must be pre-approved by your counselor or case manager. Your rehab center may also have its own visitation policies in place to protect your safety and the safety of your family members.

Balancing Outpatient Rehab With Caring for Your Family

If you are a single parent and don’t have someone you trust to care for your kids, you may be able to achieve sobriety through an outpatient rehab program. Outpatient rehab programs are part-time treatment options designed for people who have already completed inpatient rehab, do not have a severe addiction, and do not require around-the-clock care and supervision.

During outpatient rehab, you only have to attend your scheduled group and individual therapy sessions. You are able to return home after therapy, care for your family, and even continue working. Outpatient rehab programs are flexible and affordable.

If you are in early recovery and attending outpatient rehab, it’s important to recognize that your recovery should still be your number one focus during this time. While you may choose outpatient rehab so you can continue caring for your family, you must still be fully dedicated and engaged in your treatment sessions.

Some tips that can help you successfully balance outpatient rehab and caring for your family include:

• Explain to your kids why you’re going to rehab and how it will improve your relationship
• Ask friends and family for help babysitting during treatment
• Choose an outpatient program that runs during school hours
• Practice plenty of self-care so you don’t get too overwhelmed
• Ask your therapist about doing a family therapy session to address family-related issues
• Be patient with your kids and keep an open line of communication with them

Getting Financial Support for Your Family During Rehab

Even though addiction treatment is covered by insurance, going to rehab can place a financial burden on your family, especially if you have to take unpaid time off work. Fortunately, there are several ways to receive financial support for your family.

• Talk with your employer about using paid time off (PTO)
• Ask for support from friends and family
• Take out a private loan
• Use funds from savings or stocks
• Choose outpatient rehab so you can continue working and caring for your family
• Cancel any subscriptions you won’t be using to save money

Get Addiction Help for Yourself or a Loved One

It is completely normal to be concerned about not being able to care for your family during rehab, but the only way you’ll be able to continue caring for your family in the long run is to get the help you need. At ARISE Treatment Center, our dedicated admissions counselors are available to discuss your treatment options, address your concerns, and help you develop a realistic plan for seeking treatment and providing care for your family.

Don’t let these fears hold you back from getting the help you deserve. Contact us today to learn about your options.